Answer: Meiosis creates genetic variation in a few ways. One way is through independent assortment, which is when the homologous chromosomes line up randomly during meiosis I. Another way is crossing-over, which is when homologous chromosomes break and exchange pieces during meiosis I.
Genetic variation is important because it helps ensure that the population can adapt to changes in the environment. If all the individuals in a population are exactly the same, then they are all equally vulnerable to changes in the environment, such as a new disease. However, if there is genetic variation, then some individuals may have the genes that make them resistant to the new disease. This means that the population as a whole is more likely to survive.
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